15 days trek and 4 nights in Kathmandu

This 15 days trek begins with an "eye opening" flight to Lukla at 2800 metres. The trek passes through the picturesque Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar to Gorak Shep culminating in the "ascent" of Kala Pattar (5500 m) from where classic views of Everest and its surrounding peaks are available. Most of the trek is spent above altitudes of 3000 metres in the Khumbu and Imja valleys whose skylines are dominated by the massive peaks of the Eastern Himalaya.

Although this is a short trek, by Nepal standards, there will be plenty of time to enjoy the culture of the Sherpas, visit ancient monasteries and learn how Lamaistic Buddhism influences Sherpa life. Stop at any of the numerous tea houses sip a glass of sweetened tea or Chang (millet beer) and get a taste of hospitality unique to the Sherpas. Beautiful, multi-hued prayer flags, prayer wheels and intricately-carved mani stones line every hilltop, rock wall and trail side singing prayers to the gods with every breeze and every passing traveller.

DAY 1 Upon arrival I Kathmandu a Himalayan Journey's representative will meet you at the arport and transfer you to your hotel.

Day 2 Free day in Kathmandu to make the final preparations for your trek or so dome exploring on your own. We will be happy to arrange sightseeing tours of the valley for you if you desire. Please ask for this service with our airport representative upon arrival.

DAY 3 Early morning transfer to airport for flight to Lukla. The flight into Lukla is a lifetime experience, in itself. The airfield is on a slope and the difference between the two ends of the runway is about 60 meters!
Meet with your sirdar and the rest of the crew. You will need to identify your luggage which is to be made into loads and then while you have lunch your crew will load these onto pack animals or get it ready for your team of porters. After lunch trek for a few hours along the Dudh Kosi river to the village of Phakding at 2800 m.

DAY 4 Where trekking permits are checked and National Park fees collected. Continue along the trail, crossing the Bhote Kosi River to begin the steep climb up to Namche Bazaar 3500 m The trail continues north up the Dudh Kosi valley to Jorsale, where the trail officially enters the Sagarmatha National Park. There is an entrance station just beyond the village, the administrative center of the Sagarmatha National Park and the hub of Sherpa society. Remember to look out for glimpses of Mt. Everest from the trail on the way to Everest.
Electricity was introduced to Namche in October, 1983, when a UNESCO-sponsored hydroelectric plant located below the village began operation. Each house in Namche now boasts two low power consuming (Power Saver) bulbs!

DAY 5 A moderately easy and beautiful walk to the village of Thame 3800 m., situated at an important junction along the old primary trade route to and from Tibet via the Nangpa La (pass). The trail leads west past a large array of prayer flags and mani stones - some of them very picturesque. After the village of Thomde the trail descends to the river and makes a steep climb to Thame. About 4 hours from Namche.

DAY 6 Morning visit to Thame Monastery, then trek to the serene Sherpa village of Khunde.

DAY 7 The trail leads past the large Sherpa settlement of Khumjung and then descends deep into the Dudh Kosi Valley at Pungki Thanka. The trail then ascends the right flank of the Dudh Kosi valley to Thyangboche at 3870m., home to the famous Thyangboche Monastery, spiritual center of the Khumbu. The climb is long but, more than adequately compensated by views of Mt. Amadablam and on clear days views of Mt. Everest and it surrounding peaks. Amadablam means "Mother's Charm Box" and is named after the little box that Sherpa women wear around their necks. It is also one of the most beautiful mountains in the Himalaya.

DAY 8 Descend through a beautiful forest then cross the Imja Khola and trek through the village of Pangboche. The route continues through summer pastures to Dingboche 4,400 m.

DAY 9 This day will be spent acclimatizing. You can spend the day doing laundry or you can take a short hike to Chukkung Valley. This valley is a summer pasture and contains a temporary settlement for herders of the Khumbu and is at 4700meters. The views from Chukkung and beyond are tremendous.

DAY 10 Trek along a broad valley floor to Dughla, leaving behind the Trekkers Aid Post at Pheriche 4240 m. A western volunteer doctor, supported by The Himalayan Rescue Association is stationed here and offers treatment and consultation to trekkers. Continue up the valley gaining altitude. Come out of the valley to descend to the yak pastures at Lobuche 4930 m.

DAY 11 After a short climb through meadows, look down on the Khumbu Glacier. Straight ahead is Kalapattar - the best vantage point to view the entire south face of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks. Trek to Gorakshep and prepare for tomorrow's ascent of Kalapattar 5545 meters.

DAY 12 This morning, those who are able will hike up Kala Pattar for unobstructed views of Everest and its surrounding peaks. Most of the famous photographs of Everest were taken from atop this "bump" on the landscape. In the afternoon, retrace your steps to Lobuche.

DAY 13 Follow the main Khumbu Valley down to Pheriche, site of the Himalayan Rescue Association's Trekkers' Aid Post.

DAY 14 Easy walk along the Imja Khola with a visit to the gompa at Pangboche, then a short climb up to the Thyangboche Monastery.

DAY 15 The trail descends steeply towards Pungki Thanka and another steep climb to Namche Bazaar.

DAY 16 Down along the gorge of the Dudh Kosi to Lukla. Weather permitting your trekking crew might prepare a farewell treat for you. You would be expected to join in the singing and the dancing!!

DAY 17 To Lukla airport to catch your return flight to Kathmandu. Rest of day free in Kathmandu.

DAY 18 In Kathmandu

DAY 19 Transfer to airport for your final departure.